The article centers around the actions of Russell Vought, the Trump loyalist and OMB director, and Elon Musk's role in the Trump administration's second term. Vought, the co-author of the Heritage Foundation's Project 2025, is depicted as the main architect behind the administration's cost-cutting measures and controversial actions.
The article highlights the controversial downsizing of government agencies like the USAID and CFPB. Musk's public pronouncements and actions, often made through social media, are contrasted with Vought's behind-the-scenes maneuvering to achieve these cuts. The legality of these actions and the methods employed are questioned.
The actions of Vought and Musk faced significant legal challenges and resistance from unions, such as the CFPB's union, which sued the administration, claiming illegal actions. Court rulings temporarily blocked certain measures. The article also explores the ongoing legal battles surrounding the administration's actions and cost-cutting initiatives.
Vought's conservative ideology and the role of Project 2025 in shaping the Trump administration are discussed. Vought's background and career path are detailed, tracing his evolution from student government to working closely with influential figures like Phil Gramm. His belief in the unitary executive theory and his actions are analyzed.
The article suggests that Musk's influence is waning due to mixed results, poor approval ratings, and the declining Tesla stock price. Trump's own statements about Musk’s future involvement suggest a possible departure of Musk from the administration. Vought is positioned as ready to continue the cost-cutting agenda if Musk's role decreases.
The article concludes by highlighting the uncertain outcome of Vought's efforts and the legal challenges facing the Trump administration's cost-cutting initiatives. The disruption caused to agencies like the CFPB is described, with the future of these agencies remaining uncertain.